Wise Cottage at Dymchurch
From the collection of
Screen Archive South East at the University of Brighton collects, preserves, catalogues and provides public access to its collection of films and magic lantern slides. The collection charts the rise of screen culture in the region and the nation and captures many aspects of life, work and creativity in the South East from the late 19th century to the present day. It is available for research, screenings, creative re-use and commercial access.
Wise Cottage at Dymchurch
Eric Norman's wartime film shows his family and friends enjoying seaside fun despite the coastal defences - followed by a garden picnic
This delightful film made during WW2 starts with the Norman family and their friends walking along the sea wall at Dymchurch, dressed in swimwear and bath robes. After some comedy antics they make their way into the sea, stepping over anti-invasion barriers. Back at home, in Wise Cottage, members of the family are seen relaxing and smooching - with a man tickling a woman. Later, we see the family, now joined by friends, enjoying a picnic in the garden of their 'Moderne' home.
Eric Norman was the managing director of Norcon Ltd, which was based in Challock, Kent. He filmed a variety of subjects including family scenes either at home or on holiday, scenes showing the Norcon Works in Chichester and football scenes featuring Wolverhampton Wanderers playing at their Molineaux Stadium.